Charge Variation Sensor for Automatic Image Frequency Synchronization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional solutions for reducing flickering and banding effects in images caused by alternating current-powered light sources require manual user input or additional sensors, leading to increased complexity and cost, and post-processing algorithms often fail to completely eliminate these issues.
Innovation Solution
A method using a charge variation sensor and processing circuitry to generate a frequency spectrum signal from the alternating current power source, identifying the frequency, and adjusting the image acquisition frequency to match, thereby automatically adapting to the light source's modulation frequency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a dedicated ambient light sensor is added to sense the modulation frequency of ambient light, then the light modulation frequency can be sensed automatically, but the design complexity and cost of the electronic apparatus increase
Solution Approach 1:
The existing image acquisition device is made multi-functional by enabling it to perform both image capture and frequency sensing operations. The same sensor and processing circuitry are used for dual purposes: capturing images and detecting the modulation frequency of ambient light, thereby eliminating the need for a dedicated frequency sensing component.
Solution Approach 2:
The frequency sensing function is merged with the image acquisition device. The processing circuitry that normally handles image data is also configured to analyze the modulation frequency of ambient light by examining the captured image frames, combining two functions into a single integrated system.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If post-processing algorithms are applied to acquired images to reduce flickering and banding effects, then the light intensity between successive frames can be adjusted, but the flickering may only be reduced not removed and banding phenomenon generally persists
Solution Approach 1:
The modulation frequency of the ambient light is sensed in advance before image acquisition. Based on this pre-detected frequency information, the image acquisition frequency is predetermined and configured to be a multiple of the sensed frequency. This preliminary configuration prevents flickering and banding effects from occurring in the first place, rather than attempting to correct them after image capture.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the sensed modulation frequency as feedback to automatically adjust the image acquisition frequency. The processing circuitry continuously monitors the ambient light frequency and dynamically configures the image acquisition rate accordingly, creating a closed-loop system that adapts to changing lighting conditions and maintains optimal performance.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the image acquisition frequency is set to a multiple value of the alternating current frequency, then flickering and banding phenomena are reduced or eliminated, but the system must accurately determine the AC frequency first
Solution Approach 1:
The image acquisition device performs self-configuration by automatically sensing the modulation frequency of ambient light and setting its own image acquisition frequency accordingly. The device uses its existing image capture capability to detect the frequency, eliminating the need for external frequency measurement equipment or manual user input.
Solution Approach 2:
The captured image frames serve as an intermediary medium that carries information about the ambient light modulation frequency. By analyzing the variations in image frame data, the processing circuitry can extract the frequency information without directly measuring the light or electrical signals, using the images as an intermediate carrier of frequency information.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach accurately and automatically sets the image acquisition frequency to a multiple value of the alternating current frequency, reducing or eliminating flickering and banding phenomena while maintaining low computational and power costs, and can be integrated into consumer electronics without significant cost or design complexity.
Implementation Method 1
generating a charge variation signal indicative of changes in an electric or electrostatic charge induced on a charge variation sensor by an alternating current power source
Data Source
AI summary
A device includes a charge variation sensor having at one or more electrodes. The charge variation sensor, in operation, generates a charge variation signal indicative of changes in an electric or electrostatic charge induced on the one or more electrodes by an alternating current power source. Processing circuitry, coupled to the charge variation sensor, generates a frequency spectrum signal based on the charge variation signal and identifies a frequency of operation associated with the alternating current power source based on the generated frequency spectrum signal. A control signal is generated based on the identified frequency of operation. An image acquisition device sets an image acquisition frequency based on the control signal.